8 Ways to Keep Your Vagina Healthy This Summer

Updated on 6/23/2018 at 9:35 AM

Keeping your vagina in good shape should be a year-round practice, but it's especially important to keep her happy during the warmer months. Higher temperatures equal more sweat and steamy hookups, which calls for proper maintenance. Because nothing is less sexy than an infection or an STD. With that said, you can still have your fun without running into trouble. To prevent unwanted situations that might ruin your Summer, follow these eight tips ahead.

Avoid Lounging in Sweaty Leggings

Although this should be practiced every season, you'll want to be especially good about changing out of sweaty clothes when temperatures heat up. And if you cycle regularly, you may want to switch up your workout routine to prevent vaginal infections. It's always best to change into dry, clean underwear or to shower promptly after you finish exercising.

Stay Hydrated

Not only is proper hydration key for surviving the warm Summer months, but it also flushes out your urinary tract, preventing infections. Drink up and don't forget to pee after sex to decrease your chances of a UTI.

Don't Sit in a Wet Bathing Suit

Lounging around in wet bottoms is one of the biggest culprits of yeast infections, especially reoccurring ones. Warm and wet environments are the perfect breeding grounds for yeast, so be sure to change out of your swimsuit as soon as you're done swimming.

Get Your Fill of Probiotics

Greek yogurt in particular helps your vagina maintain a healthy pH balance. It provides good bacteria while fighting off the bad ones that throw off your pH and cause infection. Also make sure to stick to plain, unsweetened varieties since yeast feeds on sugar.

Practice Good Hygiene

Summer typically equals more sweat in all areas. Do yourself a favor by showering — especially during your period — and swapping out dirty undergarments regularly. Opting for dresses in place of tight jeans is also a great way to keep your vagina sweat-free.

Choose Cotton

Underwear made of synthetic fabrics like nylon or silk materials may look cute, but they're not the best choice for your vagina. As a self-cleaning organ, it needs to be able to breathe in order to do its job. Non-cotton materials prevent air flow and trap moisture, which means your vagina is essentially sitting in a bacteria-friendly environment.

Avoid Fancy Soaps

Using gentle, unscented soaps will help you prevent vaginal irritation. If you're experiencing any itchiness, dryness, or yeast infections after switching to a new soap, you may want to swap it out for something less harsh.

Practice Safe Sex

Using a condom to protect yourself and your partner from STIs is a given, but safe sex also requires good hygiene. Wash your hands prior to getting physical, rinse off after sex, and make sure your sex toys are fully cleaned before and after use.